In situ measurement of façades with a low U-value: Avoiding deviations

Abstract

In situ measurements of low thermal transmittance façades are required to ensure compliance with energy performance strategies for new nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEB) and with energy policies for the transition of existing building stock to nZEB. The aim of this paper was to enhance the accuracy of the in situ measurement of low U-value façades, employing the widely used ISO 9869-1:2014 HFM method and exploring the limits of its conditions. To refine the testing conditions, three variables were analysed and compared with indications of ISO 9869-1:2014 and the existing literature: the temperature difference, the test duration and the accuracy of equipment. A continuous experimental campaign was conducted in a building mock-up. The findings showed that to accurately measure in situ low U-value façades, the temperature differences must be greater than those indicated in the existing literature. Temperature differences above 19 °C required a test duration of 72 h, while for lower temperature differences the test duration must be prolonged. The accuracy of temperature sensors had a greater impact on the accuracy of measurement in the initial cycles of the test. Likewise, the accuracy of ambient temperature sensors was found to have a considerable influence on the uncertainty of measurements.